When you’re looking for a new skateboard, there are so many factors to consider that it can be overwhelming. Weight is one of those things that some skaters overlook but can have an impact on your desired experience.
Does the weight of your board really matter when it comes to, say, performance and maneuverability? What differences should you expect in a lightweight versus a heavy board?
In this article, we will answer these questions and determine if skateboard weight actually affects your skating capabilities. So whether you’re just beginning or an experienced rider who’s curious about boards with varying weights.
Read on to learn how much significance this factor has when selecting the perfect setup for yourself.
Does weight matter on a skateboard?
Many ask the question: does weight matter on a skateboard? The truth is, it all depends on your objective.
Skateboards that are lightweight typically feature a shorter deck, which can make them ideal for street skating.
Heavier boards offer greater stability and an easier ride, making them better suited for long rides or downhills.
As far as durability goes, a heavier deck will generally last longer than lighter ones; however, the trade-off comes with the ease of turning due to the added weight.
Ultimately, the best board for you should come down to your skill level and style of skateboarding rather than focusing solely on its weight.
Is it better to have a heavy or light skateboard?
Skateboarding, although a simple concept, can be a tricky science when it comes to choosing the right board.
Everyone has their own preference, but in terms of practicality, it is generally better to have a board on the lighter side. Lighter boards are easier to maneuver and allow riders to execute complex tricks with more ease.
Furthermore, they are much less taxing on wobbly legs and arms while traversing long distances of terrain. Heavy boards can still be beneficial as they offer solid balance and stability during downhill rides, however, this begs the question of whether or not the extra weight is really necessary for everyday use.
Overall, when deciding between a heavier or lighter skateboard, you have to consider what type of skateboarding you plan on doing and make sure you are comfortable riding your board regardless of its weight because at the end of the day, that is what’s most important.
Does weight Affect skateboard speed?
While skateboarding is a core part of many people’s routines and lifestyles, there is an aspect in which physical weight can influence the speed at which you ride your skateboard.
Many professional skaters have spoken on the matter that boards designed for heavier people are slightly slower than those designed for lighter frames.
Countless studies have been done to back up this concept with regard to the physics of skateboarding, showing that different shapes and sizes, as well as differences in board quality, contribute to how much speed riders can gain on their boards.
It is important to note that although skateboard weight does affect speed, it is not the only factor.
Other things such as wheel size, grip tape material, and bearing type all play a role in how fast you can go on your board.
So while it is true that heavier riders may be at a slight disadvantage when it comes to speed, this does not mean that they cannot still enjoy skateboarding as a sport or hobby at the same level as their lighter counterparts.
Conclusion
Skateboard weight certainly does matter, especially when considering the type of skateboarding one wishes to do.
Heavier boards are more suitable for providing a stable ride over rough terrain; lighter boards are better suited to doing tricks and spins. As such, choosing the right board weighs heavily into the performance that a rider can expect from their deck.
Weight also needs to be taken into consideration because it dictates how much control a skateboarder will have over their board, as well as how comfortable they will be with their setup when riding for extended periods of time.
FAQs
Can I skate if I’m heavy?
Skating can be enjoyed by all ages and shapes, with no difference in weight. If you are a heavier skater, then you may opt for a heavier skateboard as it will provide greater stability and balance.
Is skateboarding good for belly fat?
Skateboarding is not a great exercise for reducing belly fat, but it can help you burn some calories and improve cardiovascular health.
Does skateboarding tone your body?
Skateboarding is a great form of exercise that tones your body while being fun. It builds muscle in your legs, arms, and core, as well as improving your balance and coordination. It is an excellent way to stay active without having to go to the gym. It can also help strengthen bones and joints due to the continuous impact from the board.